For Newbies and Veteran Yogis Alike: Essential Yoga Poses

Sanskrit Name: Utthita Hasta Padangusthasana A
English Translation: Standing Hand to Big Toe Pose A

• Stand with both feet together in Mountain Pose. Shift your weight onto your left leg and lift your right leg into the air. Hold onto your right big toe with the first two fingers and thumb of your right hand. Bring your left hand to your hip.
• Keep the standing leg straight and straighten your right leg, keeping your torso upright. Stay here or, if this is easy, fold your torso forward over your extended leg.
• Hold for five deep breaths and then switch sides.

This is a toughie, so here are details on how to prevent falling over in Standing Hand to Big Toe Pose A.